A Senatorial Aspirant Steps Down After Meeting Gov Mbah, Calls for Unity in Enugu
By Pan Afric Reporters
A frontline aspirant for the Enugu West Senatorial District seat on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Venerable Francis Mountainfly Onuzuruike, has officially withdrawn from the race, citing the need to preserve unity, stability, and political harmony in Enugu State.
Onuzuruike announced his decision in a press release personally signed, discloses that his withdrawal followed extensive consultations with stakeholders and a meeting with the Governor of Enugu State, Peter Ndubuisi Mbah.
Addressing journalists and supporters according to the release, the cleric-turned-politician said his senatorial ambition was driven by a genuine desire to provide purposeful leadership and advance the interests of the people of Enugu West.
According to him, the consultations held across the senatorial district involved traditional rulers, youth leaders, women groups, professionals, political stakeholders, and party faithful.
“My aspiration to represent our people in the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria was born out of a genuine passion to serve, to uplift our communities, and to bring purposeful leadership that reflects the hopes and aspirations of our people,” he said.
Onuzuruike noted that the MSG Movement had grown into a formidable grassroots political structure both within Nigeria and in the diaspora, adding that the support he received throughout the campaign period remained deeply humbling.
He, however, stated that after a “deep reflection and prayerful consideration,” he decided to step down in deference to the counsel of Governor Mbah and in the overall interest of party cohesion.
“During our engagement, His Excellency, as the leader of our party in the State, offered fatherly counsel rooted in the need to preserve unity, stability, and the continued progress of Enugu State,” he stated.
“After deep reflection, prayerful consideration, and in deference to this wise counsel, as well as in the overriding interest of party cohesion and harmony, I have taken the difficult but necessary decision to step down from the race for the Senate seat representing Enugu West Senatorial District.”
The APC chieftain described the decision as painful but necessary, stressing that leadership sometimes requires sacrifice for the greater good.
“This decision was not taken lightly. It comes with a clear understanding that true leadership is not only about contesting for positions but also about making sacrifices for the greater good,” he said.
“At this critical time in our State’s development, unity must take precedence over individual ambition.”
He expressed appreciation to members of the MSG Movement, youth organisations, women groups, and supporters across the district for their loyalty and commitment, assuring them that his withdrawal from the contest would not affect his commitment to public service and community development.
“Stepping down from this race does not in any way diminish my commitment to service. On the contrary, it strengthens my resolve to continue working for the advancement of our people,” he added.
Onuzuruike also urged his supporters to remain peaceful and continue supporting the leadership of the APC and the administration of Governor Peter Mbah in the interest of peace and development in the state.
Quoting the Bible to justify his decision, he said: “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God.”
